Merriam-Webster Adds Jam Band to Dictionary

On October 1, Merriam-Webster added 200 new words and definitions to the dictionary, including “jam band,” a noun defined as “a band (especially a rock band) whose performances are distinguished by frequent and often lengthy jazzlike improvisations.” 

Prior to the latest development, the word became popularized as a way of referencing a class of music performed by the Grateful Dead and Phish, solidified by Relix’s Editor-in-Chief Dean Budnick in his 1998 publication, Jam Bands, the first book devoted entirely to the subject matter. 

Subsequently, Budnick began Jambands.com later that year, providing an online platform for community members and fans to stay updated on their favorite jam bands. He turned out his second publication on the topic in 2004, Jambands: A Complete Guide to the Players, Music & Scene. 

Merriam-Webster’s examples go so far as to reference the highly regarded acts that initially inspired Budnick’s use of the word. Providing: “Blues Traveler is part of the new wave of jam bands … that play long, long shows and inspire fan devotion reminiscent of the Grateful Dead.”

Examples continue, referencing other scene favorites: “This Friday, the jam band Phish—which … remains uniquely regarded for its improvisational prowess and zealous, wayfaring fans—will arrive in New York City for thirteen shows …;” “Gov’t Mule brought a refreshing oomph to … the jam-band scene;” and others.

Scroll through the post below to see the inclusion of “jam band” in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary.